The feast of blessing that God gives is not a feast in absence of struggle–but an abundant daily provision even in the middle of chaos.
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Scripture
Proverbs 15:15
All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.
Observation
What a difference ‘perspective’ makes! For those who are afflicted, each day is another evil added on top of all the other evil. Bad on top of bad, trouble added to trouble.
Those who are ‘cheerful of heart’ experience all of the same trials, struggles, and battles as the afflicted…yet in the same circumstance, they find a continual source of strength and sustenance for life’s journey. This kind of joy comes from a heart that is grounded firmly in the God who holds the world in the palm of His hand.
Application
Some days are harder than others, and some seasons weigh heavier. Affliction seems to make every day darker and more gloomy, every problem larger, and every challenge more insurmountable.
I have a choice each day–either to allow my heart to be afflicted, or to walk with the joy of the Lord. Walking in his joy doesn’t mean that all of the problems go away or that the battles are any smaller–but it does mean that I keep my eyes on my savior instead of on the wind and the waves. It means that I eagerly look for the ‘feast’ that he gives each day, because I know he is faithful and will give me exactly what I need each day.
Psalm 23 says that he will ‘prepare a table before me, in the presence of my enemies’. The feast of blessing that God gives is not a feast in absence of struggle–but an abundant daily provision even in the middle of chaos.
Today, I choose to be cheerful instead of afflicted. God has prepared a feast for me, and I can’t wait to taste it!
Prayer
God, thank you for your abundant blessing! Thank you for your joy which is my strength. Help me to choose cheerfulness in you each day, instead of letting my heart become ‘afflicted’. You are good, you are great, and your love never fails me!
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